After bidding farewell to Liverpool, Roberto Firmino could be the next player to make the switch from Europe to Saudi Arabia as talks are ongoing for his move to Al-Ahli. As his contract with Liverpool expires this Saturday, the Brazilian striker will officially become a free agent, granting him the opportunity to join a new club.
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While Firmino declined the chance to extend his stay at Liverpool, recognizing the emergence of the next generation of attackers, it was widely expected that he would continue his career in Europe. However, recent reports suggest that Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli is in discussions to secure the 31-year-old’s signature, with a medical already scheduled for this week.
Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano confirms the ongoing talks, stating that the club is eagerly awaiting Firmino’s final decision. Al-Ahli, which is one of the four clubs owned by the Saudi royal family’s Public Investment Fund, has presented a three-year contract to the talented forward.
According to Saudi journalist Khaled Al-Rasheed, the negotiations have progressed to the point of reaching a final agreement between the two parties. The medical examination has been arranged and is expected to take place between Wednesday and Friday, provided Firmino gives the green light. If the deal materializes, Firmino will join a growing list of high-profile players who have made their way to Saudi Arabia, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Ruben Neves, and Kalidou Koulibaly.
These transfers are part of a significant shakeup in Saudi football, with the Public Investment Fund assuming ownership of Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Hilal. Additionally, state-owned companies control four other clubs, namely Qadsia SC, Al-Diriyah Club, Al-Ula, and Al-Suqoor FC. The Saudi Pro League has expanded to accommodate 18 teams, each permitted to field a maximum of eight foreign players.
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Rather than individual clubs pursuing these players, the negotiations are primarily conducted by the Public Investment Fund, after which the new arrivals are divided among the teams. This strategic approach ensures a fair distribution of talent throughout the league.
This isn’t the first time Firmino has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, as reports have been circulating since the beginning of the year. Earlier this month, AFP identified Firmino as one of the coveted players, alongside the likes of Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Hugo Lloris, Luka Modric, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. Notably, Busquets opted to join Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), reuniting with Lionel Messi, who himself turned down a lucrative move to the Middle East.
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In addition to Roberto Firmino, there have been reports of Saudi interest in Liverpool’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. However, Oxlade-Chamberlain has previously expressed his desire to continue playing in the Premier League.
Roberto Firmino’s Champions League Record
Throughout his career, Roberto Firmino has enjoyed success in the UEFA Champions League. He has been part of the Liverpool squad that clinched the prestigious title on [Number] occasions. Firmino’s contributions to Liverpool’s European campaigns have been significant, and he has played a vital role in the club’s success on the continental stage.
Firmino’s Appearances in the Current Season
During the current season, Roberto Firmino has made [Number] appearances for Liverpool across various competitions. The Brazilian striker has been an integral part of the team, displaying his skills and versatility on the pitch.
